We have a 12 year old Malamute with a number of medical problems. My question is: how do you know when the time is right for euthanasia? We have had her since she was 6 weeks old, and we adore her. She has diabetes, and we have dutifully given her insulin shots twice a day for 3 years. She also has arthritis and joint problems, which we help with Rimadyl and a glucosamine. She recently broke out with a facial rash due to her decreased immune system. We treat this by giving her a daily oral dose of a medicine that smells like paint thinner. She was always a large dog, between 100-110 pounds, but has cut back her food intake to the point that she has dropped to just above 80 pounds. She spends most of her time sleeping in the downstairs bathtub. This may seem like a no-brainer, but she will still occasionally perk up and seem to have some spark left in her. We don't want her to suffer, but we love her and certainly do not want to act too soon. How do you know?
2007-03-16 11:57:46 · 11 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
If you look into her eyes and she's not there you'll know it time for her to go.Pet lovers know there pets and there personalities, you'll know.I had to put a 3 year old beagle down when she injured her back and couldn't move her back legs,when I looked her in the eyes she just wasn't there any more,the dog who loved to jump an spin around was gone,that little spark that made her what she was.It may be the hardest decision you have to make,but do whats best for her. Thought and prays!!!
2007-03-16 12:35:43 · answer #1 · answered by brneyedgirl70 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would say "when the time is right" and leave it at that but I can't. I know exactly what you are going through with your dog. I had my golden retriever since he was 6 weeks old and we eventually had to put him down at the age of 11. We figured it was about time to let him go when he couldn't stand up to go to the bathroom or he had difficulty even standing up period. He had a spark every now and then too especially when my grandma came by and when he was playing with our yellow lab. I guess the time is right when you can tell that they are in pain and they have that look. It is heart breaking but it is better for them in the end, they are in no more pain. You will still be suffering but in time you will be okay.
2007-03-16 13:30:19 · answer #2 · answered by it's me 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The best answer I can give you is when they no longer have any quality of life. When they stop eating, loosing weight, very lethergic, and are just decreasing physical and mentally. It came upon my lab very fast. She was 14 and in was fine up until a few weeks before we had to put her down. She got really skinny and quit eating and just layed around all the time, she would hardly get up. So we to her to the doctor and she was having liver and kidney failure so I decided it was time. Just remember don't try to keep her alive for you. Do whats best for her, you don't want her to suffer and have a slow death. When its time you will know, she will let you know as well.
2007-03-16 15:40:53 · answer #3 · answered by dawggurl47 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to realize that quality of life is better than quantity of life. It just doesn't sound as if there is any quality of life left. I know it is the toughest decision us pet parents have to make, but we have to realize that keeping them alive just for us is not what they want especially if they are tired and hurting. The kindest gift you can give your faithful gal for all her years of loving you is the gift of peace. I know it is hard to say good-bye but she will wait for you at Rainbow Bridge and cross over with you when its your time.
2007-03-16 12:33:47 · answer #4 · answered by Luanne 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, we just put down a rot that we saved an abusive past. He had cancer in his back hip. We also loved him and were upset to see him go. The question to ask yourself is: Do I love the animal enough to put it out of its misery. Think, your dog is alive and in pain just because you don't want to part. I would put it down if I were in your position. After all, it is in pain. You don't have to do what I say, the final decision is up to you. I would also ask the vet and see what they recommend.
2007-03-16 12:32:02 · answer #5 · answered by TC 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Usually they have a look about them. It is just that have this I'm really tired and I love you look but I cant fo this any more look. I know this may sound silly but I have always know just by the look on the dogs face.
2007-03-16 12:19:44 · answer #6 · answered by ♥Golden gal♥ 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I honestly say that when you feel she is just not getting anyting out of her life anymore its time to let go. Dont let her hurt because of your close bond. I would say set a date and on that date if she has not gained any weight or is feeling any better then its time to let go.
2007-03-17 03:56:40 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is the most difficult decision any caring pet owner faces. I think this short essay is very helpful and I keep it posted on my cavalier forum:
http://www.cavaliertalk.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=151
Many people facing this decision have told me it was very helpful.
2007-03-16 13:04:45 · answer #8 · answered by cav_talk 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends on how much pain she is in. If life is unbearable for her you would know every time your dog looked at you.
2007-03-16 12:26:03 · answer #9 · answered by Big red 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
When they look drowsy and tired and always want to sleep.
2007-03-17 07:45:22 · answer #10 · answered by Spooky 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋